NASA astronauts Sunita “Suni” Williams and Barry “Butch” Wilmore recently made their way back to Earth onboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule on March 18, 2025, after a lengthy nine-month stay on the International Space Station (ISS). Their initial mission, which was scheduled to last roughly eight days using Boeing’s Starliner Spacecraft was launched in June 2024 but due to technical issues with the Starliner, including issues with the propulsion system and helium leaks, their safe return was prevented causing a prolonged stay on the ISS for the astronauts.
They were originally part of Boeing’s Starliner Crew Flight Test (CFT) mission. The goal of this mission was to test and certify Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft for future crewed missions to the International Space Station (ISS) under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program.
However, with the issues in the spacecraft, William and Wilmore were forced to remain on the ISS for nine whole months while NASA and Boeing assessed possible solutions. Hence, instead of returning on Starliner, NASA arranged SpaceX Crew Dragon Capsule for them to come back home safely. Their SpaceX capsule successfully disembarked the station early this Tuesday for the 17-hour ride home. Nevertheless, their homecoming has now captured the world’s attention as well as hearts.
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